Best Tent Camping near Fort Smith, AR

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Fort Smith, AR is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Fort Smith and user-submitted reviews.

Best Tent Sites Near Fort Smith, Arkansas (19)

    1. COE John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake Springhill Campground

    4 Reviews
    Barling, AR
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (479) 452-4598

    "The campground is set among tall trees adjacent to the John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake and James W. Trimble Lock and Dam of the Arkansas River."

    "Sites are large with flat paved parking pad. I saw a variety of all sizes of rigs and some tents. There are lots of trees, it’s close to the river and very peaceful."

    2. Natural Dam

    5 Reviews
    Natural Dam, AR
    21 miles
    Website

    "We found this quiet spot with a small waterfall on Mountain Fork Creek that has a fairly large (semi-level) gravel parking lot right next to the natural waterfall which gives good noise cover for the road"

    "A little road noise off in the distance but the waterfall all but drowned it out."

    3. Jack Creek Recreation Area

    2 Reviews
    Blue Mountain, AR
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (501) 321-5202

    "No bathrooms or water but there is a trail that goes directly to the day use area. There are changing rooms, no shower or running water. There was a trash can."

    "It’s primitive but bathrooms are available. It’s small and very popular with the locals. Off season it’s relatively quiet."

    4. Eagles Point — Tenkiller State Park

    3 Reviews
    Monroe Lake, OK
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (918) 776-8180

    "The plus to that is despite busy holiday weekends, spring flooding or special event weekends, you can always find a place to pitch a tent.

    The park rangers are friendly."

    "The sites are well spaced and the lake is fantastic. The facility is clean and there is plenty of hiking opportunities. I come back over and over again."

    5. Hickory Flats — Tenkiller State Park

    2 Reviews
    Monroe Lake, OK
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (918) 776-8180

    "Rented a tent site day before through the state website with no trouble, quiet as there weren’t many campers there that night where we were. Beautiful view of the lake in the morning."

    6. Horseshoe Bend Primitive Public Use Area

    3 Reviews
    Park Hill, OK
    45 miles

    "He knows me well enough to know if I want to turn around and since he is so nice he turned around. I couldn’t find any information regarding the campsite but needed to check it out."

    "There are still signs up showing tent camping, but they are apparently inaccurate. We had a great time and he welcomed us to stick around and hang out for the day, but no more camping."

    7. Riverfield Acreage- White River

    2 Reviews
    Combs, AR
    44 miles
    +1 (417) 291-3200

    $30 - $100 / night

    "Amazing secluded location. Kids loved having the rock bed and river right beside us. Perfect float trip back to our camp ground (free of charge to have them drop us off at a put in location."

    8. Gates Nature Preserve

    1 Review
    Monroe Lake, OK
    46 miles

    $25 / night

    "Jill was so welcoming and warm, and she even showed us around some of the beautiful trails (which are definitely “hidden” gems). Our little campsite was so cozy with a table, a fire pit and a grill."

    9. Pigeon Creek Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Big Cedar, OK
    50 miles
    Website
    +1 (580) 494-6402

    "Just on the right is a clearing you can’t miss next to the Kiamichi River along side pigeon creek. You’re surrounded by trees, moss and running blue mountain spring water. What’s not to love?"

    10. Miracle Mountain Homestead

    Be the first to review!
    Winslow, AR
    33 miles
    +1 (479) 435-5900

    $50 - $60 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 19 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Fort Smith, AR

583 Reviews of 19 Fort Smith Campgrounds



Guide to Fort Smith

Nestled in the scenic Ozark region, Fort Smith, Arkansas offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to nature lovers seeking tranquility and adventure.

Tips for tent camping near Fort Smith

  • For a peaceful experience, consider camping at Natural Dam, where the soothing sounds of a nearby waterfall can drown out distant road noise.
  • If you're looking for a secluded spot, Riverfield Acreage- White River provides a private setting perfect for families and groups wanting to disconnect from the hustle and bustle.
  • Be prepared for a primitive experience at Jack Creek Recreation Area, where you can enjoy nature without the distractions of modern amenities.

Local activities for adventure seekers

  • At Horseshoe Bend Primitive Public Use Area, you can explore the beautiful Illinois River, perfect for kayaking and fishing.
  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the small trails along the creek at Natural Dam, offering a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the stunning scenery.
  • For a refreshing swim, visit Jack Creek Recreation Area, where a nearby swimming hole awaits on warm days.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • Camping Kings allows pets, making it a great choice for those who want to bring their furry friends along for the adventure.
  • Enjoy the freedom of campfires at Horseshoe Bend Primitive Public Use Area, where you can gather around the fire after a day of exploring.
  • While amenities may be limited, Riverfield Acreage- White River offers a tranquil environment with picnic tables for a comfortable outdoor dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Fort Smith, AR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Fort Smith, AR is COE John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake Springhill Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Fort Smith, AR?

TheDyrt.com has all 19 tent camping locations near Fort Smith, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.